on this day

April 6 1896.  the modern Olympics are officially kicked off.  13 nations attended the first games.  80,000 people attended the opening ceremonies, including King George I of Greece, his wife and their sons.  241 athletes participated in the games - all men.  five events were held this day - the 100m, the triple jump, the 800m, discus throw and 400m.  first major highlight was the marathon, which was won by a Greek - Spyridon Louis.  Athens was unanimously chosen to host the first games. Demitrius Vikelas was president of the IOC for these games.  below is the poster from these games.

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